intermission

noun

in·​ter·​mis·​sion ˌin-tər-ˈmi-shən How to pronounce intermission (audio)
1
: an interval between the parts of an entertainment (such as the acts of a play)
2
: the act of intermitting : the state of being intermitted
intermissionless adjective

Examples of intermission in a Sentence

We'll return after a brief intermission. an awkward intermission between speeches
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
It will be performed in two acts with an intermission. Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Oct. 2025 Florida carried a 1-0 lead into the third period, just third time this season the Panthers led after the second intermission. Adam H. Beasley, Miami Herald, 26 Oct. 2025 By intermission, the multi-talented running back had already accrued 200 yards. Brendan Connelly, Boston Herald, 25 Oct. 2025 The Fighting Illini trailed 20-0 before getting on the board late in the first half, but battled fairly evenly after intermission. Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for intermission

Word History

Etymology

Middle English intermyssyown, from Latin intermission-, intermissio, from intermittere

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of intermission was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Intermission.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intermission. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

intermission

noun
in·​ter·​mis·​sion ˌint-ər-ˈmish-ən How to pronounce intermission (audio)
1
: pause entry 1 sense 1, interruption
work without intermission
2
: a pause or interval between the parts of an entertainment (as the acts of a play)

Medical Definition

intermission

noun
in·​ter·​mis·​sion ˌint-ər-ˈmish-ən How to pronounce intermission (audio)
: the space of time between two paroxysms of a disease compare arrest, cure entry 1 sense 1, remission

More from Merriam-Webster on intermission

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